The seasonal flu (influenza) is a serious and contagious respiratory illness. Here are some ways to protect yourself and others.
Get vaccinated. This is the most important thing you can do to protect against seasonal flu. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone six months of age and older, especially people at a high risk for flu complications, get a yearly flu shot. AmeriHealth New Jersey members can get their flu vaccine at no cost when they present their member ID card at their doctor’s office, a retail health clinic, or an in-network pharmacy. If you pay out-of-pocket, you can get reimbursed for the cost up to $50. Visit our Immunizations page to see what your health plan covers.
Stop the spread of germs. These everyday preventive actions can help slow the spread of flu viruses and also help prevent the spread of COVID-19:
Know the symptoms. The flu can cause mild to severe illness, including fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills, and fatigue. Visit the CDC’s website to learn more about flu symptoms, including emergency warning signs of flu and what to do if you get sick.
Get tested. Some of the symptoms of flu and COVID-19 are similar. If your doctor needs to know for sure whether you are sick with flu, there are lab tests that can be done. Talk to your doctor about testing options. To see what your health plan covers, log into our member website, amerihealthnj.com, for more information about your benefits.
Get 24/7 access to quality care. When it’s not possible to visit your doctor’s office, retail clinic, or urgent care center, telemedicine is a convenient, safe, and affordable option. Telemedicine, also known as virtual care, is offered from MDLIVE through HIPAA-secure video, phone, and mobile app with 24/7 access to a U.S. board-certified and licensed primary care doctor who can treat non-emergency medical conditions. Register or login at mdlive.amerihealthnj.com.
Get treatment. Most people with the flu experience mild illness and do not require medical care. If you do get sick with flu symptoms, you should stay home and avoid contact with other people. However, if you have symptoms of flu and are in a high risk group, or are very sick, contact your doctor to discuss whether antiviral drugs may be a treatment option. Antiviral drugs work best when started as soon as possible after flu illness begins and can decrease symptoms and shorten the time you are sick by 1 or 2 days. They also can help prevent serious complications, like pneumonia. To see what your plan covers, log into our member website, amerihealthnj.com, for more information about your benefits.
¹Please note: For employers who are self-insured, coverages may vary. If you have coverage through your employer, please check with them about how these programs apply.
MDLive is an independent company.
